Partnership to introduce battery energy storage system safety program

Fike Corporation, a global manufacturer and supplier of industrial hazard protection, has partnered with Heriot-Watt University to integrate a new program focusing on battery energy storage system (BESS) safety and protection from cascading thermal runaway in lithium-ion batteries.

As reported by Fike, Heriot-Watt University, the largest international university in Dubai, has established a Solar Innovation Lab powered by rooftop solar panels and a BESS.

Zafar Siddiqui, MEIA Technology & Solutions Consultant at Fike, recently collaborated with university leaders to make Heriot-Watt’s BESS the first in the Middle East and North Africa to be protected by Fike BlueTM.

Fike Blue is a third-party tested and patented solution designed to suppress cascading thermal runaway events.

This liquid, with a high boiling point, is injected directly into the battery module, managing thermal events by absorbing heat until the situation is under control.

Educational opportunities and technological advancements

The installation of Fike Blue at Heriot-Watt University offers a unique educational opportunity.

Students will be the first in the region to observe protected BESS and EV charging stations, learning industry-best practices in hazard management.

The facility will benefit undergraduate and postgraduate students studying energy and renewable energy engineering.

In the Fall Semester of 2024, Heriot-Watt University will announce a special opportunity for doctoral or master’s students to participate in testing, produce a test report, and write a thesis on thermal runaway management.

The research will be published in a future journal, contributing to academic and industry knowledge.

Industry collaboration and future student engagement

Zafar Siddiqui highlighted the significance of this initiative: “Engineering students at Heriot-Watt University will soon have the chance to explore a unique subject not offered elsewhere.

“We are excited to introduce a curriculum that focuses on thermal runaway in BESS’s and incorporates the groundbreaking Fike Blue technology to mitigate fire hazards.

“This initiative underscores our commitment to showcasing cutting-edge technologies, providing hands-on experience crucial for students engaged in renewable energy and integrated systems.

“It equips them to tackle modern challenges and prepares them to become future industry leaders.”